Category Buyer / Procurement Specialist — Tactical Procurement

Role Overview

The Procurement Specialist (Category Buyer) provides tactical procurement support for assigned categories and serves as the main link between strategic category plans and execution. This role manages mid complexity sourcing events, supports contract negotiations, coordinates supplier interactions, and ensures timely, compliant, and cost effective procurement outcomes. A Procurement Specialist applies intermediate procurement knowledge and experience to deliver value, improve processes, and support stakeholder needs.

Key Responsibilities

Tactical Sourcing & RFx Management

• Execute RFIs, RFPs, and RFQs in alignment with category strategies.

• Develop bid packages, evaluate supplier responses, and manage evaluation processes.

• Negotiate pricing, commercial terms, and conditions for mid complexity categories.

• Ensure full compliance with procurement policies and regulatory requirements.

Contract Administration

• Draft, review, and execute contracts, renewals, amendments, and terminations.

• Maintain accurate contract documentation and ensure workflow alignment.

• Monitor contract expiration dates and ensure timely updates for audit readiness.

Supplier Coordination

• Serve as the primary contact for suppliers on tactical topics, performance, and issue resolution.

• Support supplier onboarding and ensure compliance with governance standards.

• Monitor supplier performance and escalate concerns to Category Managers.

Stakeholder Collaboration

• Partner with internal stakeholders to define procurement requirements, timelines, and deliverables.

• Provide guidance on procurement processes and ensure effective communication throughout the sourcing lifecycle.

Process & Policy Compliance

• Apply procurement best practices and identify opportunities for process improvement.

• Support cost optimization initiatives within tactical scopes.

Requirements

Required Skills

• Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Business, Finance, or related field; or equivalent experience.

• 2-3 years of experience in procurement, sourcing, contract management, or category management.

• Experience leading RFx events and negotiating contracts for mid complexity categories.

• Proficiency with procurement/ERP systems (e.g., PeopleSoft, SharePoint, eRecords).

• Intermediate knowledge of procurement methods, inventory practices, and market evaluation techniques.

• Intermediate sourcing strategy development and execution skills.

• Strong negotiation capabilities for pricing, terms, and vendor performance.

• Intermediate proficiency in Microsoft Office and procurement systems.

• Strong analytical and decision-making skills.

• Effective communication, collaboration, and influence skills.

• Solid organizational and prioritization ability.

• Confident presentation and facilitation skills.

• Ability to meet deadlines, manage time sensitive tasks, and maintain accuracy.

Preferred Certifications

• CPSM, CIPS, or similar procurement credentials.